Nicole Bailey, 23, made the discovery near a One Stop local convenience shop in Blurton, Stoke-on-Trent.

She initially denied the charge of theft but when confronted with CCTV footage she pleaded guilty to one count of theft.

The owner had dropped the cash after he withdrew the money at a cash point.

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LOCATION: The incident happened outside One Stop local convenience shop

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Cops were alerted when the man had dropped the money and Bailey was identified by the local shopkeeper from thefootage.

Prosecutor Ruth Bentley said: “Staff checked the CCTV which showed a female pick up the £20 note from a display in the store.

“The manager recognised the woman, who was a regular customer.”

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CASH: The 23-year-old picked the £20 note off the street

“People don’t realise picking up something you have found amounts to a theft”

Defence lawyer Simon Dykes

Defence lawyer Simon Dykes said the incident should have been dealt with a police caution.

He said: “She didn’t know who the money belonged to. People don’t realise picking up something you have found amounts to a theft. She has been quite naive in doing so.”

Detectives said Brits should think twice about pocketing cash that isn't theirs.

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REVEALED: She initially denied the crime until she was confronted with CCTV

Staffordshire Police Chief Inspector Karen Stevenson said: “We would actively encourage any member of the public who picks up money that has been dropped to be honest and do the right thing by taking all reasonable steps to try and find the owner.”

Bailey, of Highfield drive, Blurton, has been given a six-month conditional discharge.